Four lessons from the Ashley Madison data leak

1 - If my name is on the leaked list, will my spouse be able to divorce me for cheating? Will I be forced to pay extra alimony because my name was leaked?

In Ontario, infidelity does not impact the rights and obligations related to divorce. We have a "no-fault" legal system when it comes to infidelity and family law. You may end up divorced but the affair will not impact your legal rights.

2 - I know I never should have signed up, but if my spouse wants a divorce is there any way to keep the cost reasonable?

Lawyers charge by the hour, and if cases go to trial, costs skyrocket. A process called Collaborative Practice has lawyers from both sides agreeing to try to settle without a trial. Collaborative Practice is often faster than traditional separation. If lawyers fail to settle, they promise not to represent you at the trial, so there's no incentive to drag the case on. The lawyers become problem-solvers, not soldiers.

3 - What if I'm on the list because someone was playing a prank on me? My reputation's shot.

As a divorce lawyer, I hear all kinds of stories about bad behaviour that are not true, even when they are in sworn statements given to the court. Many Ashley Madison listings are fake. Chances are people will judge you by your behaviour, not the leaked data.

4 - My wife and I had a huge fight over the Ashley Madison data leak. The argument got heated and things became violent. Can I be arrested?

Be careful in any argument with your spouse, whether over Ashley Madison or any other problem. If the police see any evidence, or even a threat, of violence, they will arrest you on the spot, take you to jail, keep you there until you post bail, and then block you from returning home until your trial. It will be a mess.